2015 L'Aventure Estate Optimus

Inky ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes spice-accented cherry and blueberry, while smoke and vanilla nuances add complexity. Sappy and expansive on the palate, offering sweet dark fruit flavors that show liqueur-like depth and a surprisingly light touch. Closes on a gently tannic note, displaying impressive clarity, repeating spiciness and strong cling.

- Josh Raynolds

Bottled mid-March 2017 and a blend of 60% Syrah, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Petit Verdot, the 2015 Optimus has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed black currants, black cherries and black raspberries with hints of violets, dark chocolate, baking spices and black pepper. Full-bodied and with a lovely intensity of vibrant black fruit, it has an approachable frame of rounded tannins and lively acid, finishing long and spicy.

- Lisa Perrotti-Brown